Should interior HSS be capped?

[StructureMan44]

We have vertical HSS being used as a supports or lateral stops for 12"ø steam pipe at various points on a pipe rack. The rack is entirely indoors in a conditioned space. Aesthetics are not a concern. Is there any need to add cap plates or end plates on the HSS?

 

[dik]

No, but I generally do just to keep rats out, or, whatever.

Dik

 

[BAretired]

We like to tell outsiders that we don't have rats in Alberta, but I'm not so sure. We do have mice, wasps and other pests. A wasp nest would be a nasty surprise, so I agree with dik that end plates are a sensible precaution.

BA

 

[JedClampett]

Yes.
Someone could rake their hand on the sharp steel tube edges. Even if it's not intended to be accessible, even one time is too many.

 

[dik]

Jed:

My project notes require that all sharp edges be ground smooth. Not just avoid the problem with capping HSS.

Dik

 

[Bagman2524]

I've seen open top HSS turn into a garbage can if low enough to ground

All I know is P/A and Mc/I